ART
Art is an adventure into an unknown world which can be explored only by those willing to take the risks. - Mark Rothko
WYNN NICHOLS
Linocut Printing
This linocut printing collection showcases bold, hand-carved designs brought to life through the meticulous process of inking and pressing, embracing the beauty of imperfection in each unique print.
Linocut Printing is a technique that celebrates precision, patience, and the distinct beauty of hand-pressed prints. My foray into this medium has been an exploration of translating bold designs into physical, tactile artwork. The process of creating linocuts was both meditative and demanding, requiring a steady hand and a clear vision, but the result was always worth the effort.
The journey of a linocut print begins with a simple block of linoleum. I start by sketching out a design, carefully considering how each part of the image will interact with the cuts I’ll make. Linocut printing is all about contrasts—what is carved away becomes the white space, while what remains raised will carry the ink and form the final image.
Carving the block is the most critical part of the process. Using special tools, I cut away at the linoleum, creating lines, textures, and spaces where ink will either sit or not. For designs like the tiger and the crow, I aimed to use bold, confident lines that emphasize strength and power. The tiger, with its roaring face, features deep, sweeping cuts that give the final print an intense, dynamic feel.
Each design is a balance of deliberate choices—should a line be thick and strong, or thin and delicate? Should the background remain simple, or should it be filled with texture to add depth? These decisions define the final look of each piece.